Western Sydney health professionals should be aware of malaria cases in people recently arrived from Africa. The World Health Organisation (WHO) African region was home to 94% of malaria cases (246 million) and 95% (569,000) of malaria deaths in 2023 (1).
Recommendations
- Screen and test all refugees who have travelled from or transited through a malaria-endemic area within 3 months of their arrival, even if asymptomatic and regardless of any pre-departure malaria testing or treatment
- Test these people if they develop fever within 12 months of arrival
PCR testing is recommended for initial investigation as antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are not sensitive enough to detect all infections.
What to do with positive-tested patients
Patients with malaria can deteriorate quickly, especially children, pregnant women and those with low immunity. Some recent arrivals are partly protected by natural immunity acquired in their home country and may not look unwell at the initial presentation but can also deteriorate quickly without treatment.
If malaria is detected, including in patients who are asymptomatic, discuss management with an Infectious Disease specialist at Westmead or Blacktown Hospitals.
See The Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide for guidance.